Iowa’s 15 community colleges collectively are projecting a $2.3 million dip in total resources for the next budget year — contributing to a projected $36.8 million deficit — propelled largely by previous bumps in federal funding due to COVID-19, and more anticipated facility and program expenses. Some disparities also are tied to the timing of income — like bond revenue — and expenses. The State Board of Education on Thursday considered each community college’s “best estimate” of expected revenues and expenditures for the 2023 budget year, which starts July 1, including state appropriations, tuition and fee income and salary and benefit costs.
